just to ad my tuppence worth..you can get 6x3's in a mondeo estate + tools inc hopups, folding ladder if u need it and maybe 10 bags...boards in first btw...
id always recomend a transit, doesnt matter what size, theyre usually about the same on diesel...(not too cheap) but you can get parts easy, fix em blindfolded and they last for ages..plus u can pick em up cheapish...everyone seems to be of the opinion that 'clean/new van = more work'..well, not really in my opinion..signwriting=more work yes...people can spend more money 'trying to be a business' than actually earning money...
not adverse to other vans, just what ive been used to..
i think you know all that already though... id bear in mind though, your a roofer+, what if someone wants say a chimney flashed? chimney reduced 8 course? dont forget u can get an ali tower+youngerman+ladders,tools(inc mixer etc)+tiles,felt,batten...in a transit...be a struggle in an escort...just a bit..
dont forget the 'credit crunch'...think cadburys should invent a new chocolate bar....